What harm does gallstones cause to the body?

Gallstones can cause harm to the body in many ways and require prompt attention and treatment to avoid serious consequences. Gallstones are solid substances formed in the gallbladder or bile duct, composed of cholesterol, bile pigment and other components.

One of the possible harms caused by gallstones is biliary colic. When gallstones get stuck in the bile duct, they can cause severe right upper abdominal pain, usually after a meal. The pain may radiate to the back or right shoulder, and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Repeated episodes of biliary colic not only affect the quality of life, but can also lead to further complications.

In addition to pain, gallstones may also cause cholecystitis and cholangitis. When gallstones block the gallbladder or bile duct outlet, bile cannot be discharged normally, the pressure in the gallbladder increases, bacteria are easy to multiply, and inflammation occurs. Symptoms include fever, chills, jaundice, etc. If the inflammation spreads throughout the body, it may also lead to sepsis and endanger life.

Long-term gallstones may also cause gallbladder dysfunction and affect the normal functioning of the digestive system. The gallbladder is an organ that stores and concentrates bile, which helps digest fat in food. Once the gallbladder function is impaired, fat digestion and absorption are blocked, which can cause problems such as indigestion and bloating. For some patients, long-term gallstones can even cause gallbladder cancer, although this is rare.

To reduce the harm caused by gallstones, you should first ensure a balanced diet and avoid consuming too much high-fat food. Control your weight and avoid rapid weight loss, as weight fluctuations increase the risk of gallstones. If you find symptoms of gallstones, do not delay and seek medical treatment for diagnosis and treatment. For cases where symptoms recur or have caused complications, surgery is the most effective solution, which can completely relieve the trouble of gallstones and improve the quality of life.